The Philippine theater scene has long been a source of entertainment and cultural expression for the country. However, it has also been criticized for its lack of innovation and stagnation. The Philippine Educational Theater Association (PETA) aims to challenge this status quo with their latest production, Ang Babae sa Septic Tank 4: Oh Sh*t! It’s Live sa Cheter!
The play, written by Chris Martinez and directed by Maribel Legarda, follows the story of a group of theater practitioners as they gather for a mysterious dinner at Eugene Domingo's residence. The play-within-a-play, Kahapon, Ngayon at Bukas, is a satirical take on the current state of the Philippine theater scene, tackling topics such as the ubiquity of profitable jukebox musicals and the lack of diversity in the industry.
The cast, which includes Eugene Domingo, Melvin Lee, Andoy Ranay, Meann Espinosa, JC Santos, Stella Cañete-Mendoza, Joshua Lim So, and Marlon Rivera, deliver a dynamic and spontaneous performance, bringing to life the various archetypes and hyper-real versions of themselves. The play is a fascinating experience, offering a self-contained world that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.
The satire is biting and sometimes clever, but it doesn't truly get to the core of the theater industry's systemic problems. Instead, it offers a nudge and a wink, providing a striking tableau of egotistical mania styling itself as an art form's saving grace. At its best, it is a visceral cry of a community wondering where it is headed.
The play raises important questions about the quality and depth of the art now that it is experiencing an influx of theatergoers. How far does one adapt and adjust to sell the ancient practice of theater to a modern audience more attuned to newer forms of art before it all turns to shit? This production touches on such conundrums, though it doesn't effectively dwell on them enough for us to go home feeling changed.
The production features an impressive set design by Gino Gonzales, lighting by Barbie Tan-Tiongco, and video projections by Bene Manaois. The choreography by Raflesia Bravo allows the actors to maximize the entire space, creating a visceral and engaging experience.
Ang Babae sa Septic Tank 4: Oh Sh*t! It’s Live sa Cheter! runs until Aug. 16 at the PETA Theater Center, New Manila, Quezon City. Tickets range in price from P1,800 to P3,500.
